It's been a while since we've run a story on the unhealthy habits of EDM concert attendees, but fortunately the first major report on the subject from 2014 doesn't come with any deaths. However, the 60 Belfast concertgoers that required ambulance care during the show from producer Hardwell on Thursday night probably aren't too happy about it.
The Dutch DJ, ranked no. 1 in the world during 2013 by DJ Magazine, was playing the Odyssey Arena in Northern Ireland. A number of ambulances were set up outside-a precaution for all concerts, not just EDM. And it was a good thing. Reports say that 60 received treatment for "the effects of drinks and drugs." Seven were transported to hospitals for further care. The amount of individuals requiring aid was enough to get the Northern Ireland Ambulance Service to declare the situation a "major incident."
Adrian Doyle, the arena's general manager, clarified to the press that those undergoing treatment did not even get inside the show.
"These patrons were not granted entry to the Odyssey Arena, and were treated by the Ambulance Service outside," he said. "Seven patients have now been transferred to hospital by ambulance. The Hardwell concert is continuing as normal inside the Odyssey Arena."
The concert industry is wary of big EDM gigs following some of the unfortunate headlines from shows last year. A number of fans died from either overdose or by using "bad drugs," and the Electric Zoo in New York City had its last day cancelled as a result.
